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“You too, Phil,” she said, nodding to a few familiar faces before Lisa slid onto the stool next to her, coffee in hand.
Lisa gave her a playful nudge. “Looking festive today.”
Emma stuck a pose with her hands under her chin, batting her eyelashes. “I try, sometimes.”
Margie approached with her notepad ready. “So, what’ll it be, honey?”
“I’ll have a large veggie wrap—with fries this time,” Emma said, surprising even herself.
“You got it.” Margie winked, tearing off the order and heading to the kitchen.
Lisa’s eyes widened. “Fries? That’s a first.”
“Yeah. I figured I’d treat myself, for the holiday and all.”
Usually, Emma would settle for a small salad. But today felt different. For years, Chad would scold her whenever she dared to stray from the safe, low-calorie options on the menu. His critical glances and sharp comments always made her feel insecure about her figure. Chad’s obsession with her maintaining a size six had been a constant pressure in their marriage, and though she’d dieted diligently, the struggle to meet his exacting standards had worn on her.
While waiting for her meal, Emma was greeted by her old neighbor, Ada Harrison. “Hey stranger! I haven’t seen you in ages. How are things at the new house?”
“Hey you!” Emma pulled her into a hug. “Things are going well. The new cottage is coming together finally. It’s smaller than what I’m used to, but it’s perfect for me and Riley.”
“I’m glad to hear that.” Ada’s mischievous grin lit up her eyes. “You wouldn’t believe who moved into your old place. He’s from Chicago, and what a dreamboat! His son is as handsome as he is. And no wife, either. Boy...if I was about ten years younger, I’d think about leaving Frank for him.”
Several people chuckled at the story, while others leaned in, intrigued by the town’s latest gossip. A couple near the window exchanged amused glances, while a woman at the counter sipped her soda with a knowing smile.
“He stopped by this morning,” Phil said. “A nice guy. Very nice guy.”
“Ada certainly thinks so!” someone called out from one of the booths.
The walls of the diner shook with laughter, bouncing sound waves through the crowded space, drowning out the clinking of dishes and the hum of conversation. Emma was caught mid-laugh as the door chime drew her attention.
Every face turned toward the door, and in an instant their raucousness faded to a hush. Silence gripped the diner like a vise.
Her eyes darted to see who had entered, a smile still on her lips...until she saw the man she hadn’t seen since their divorce.
Chad waved to the diner patrons, including her, then led Ashley to a booth.
Turning away, Emma fought to compose herself as her breath hitched. How could he move on so easily?
Phil leaned in. “Want me to kick him out? I don’t have to serve someone like him, not after what he did.”
“I don’t want you to lose business on my account, Phil. Let them stay.”
Phil’s eyes narrowed as he reached across the counter and squeezed Emma’s hand. “Okay, sweetie. But if you change your mind, let me know.”
“Thanks, Phil.” Emma lowered her gaze as Phil walked away.
“Are you alright?” Lisa whispered.
“Not really.” Emma knew this day would come. She had imagined this moment countless times in her mind, preparing herself for the encounter, but now that it was happening, she still wasn’t ready for it.
Just then, Margie set down a veggie wrap and fries in front of Emma, who felt a sudden certainty that she wouldn’t be able to eat a single bite.
“I need to go,” Emma murmured to Lisa as Margie walked away.
“I’ll go with you. You still need to eat. Do you wanna take this over to the beach?”
“I can’t, Lisa. Not now. I’m sorry, but I need to go.” Emma’s hands trembled as she reached for her wallet, pulling out a couple of bills and placing them on the table.
